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Best Roof Rack For Mountain Bike (2024 Update)

Transporting your mountain bike on road trips requires a sturdy and secure roof rack to keep it safe. With so many options on the market, choosing the right rack for your vehicle and bike can be overwhelming. Before making a purchase, keep these key factors in mind.

First, examine your vehicle’s roof structure and weight limit to find a roof rack that fits properly and can handle the bike’s weight. Will you need round bars or square bars? How many contact points need to attach to the roof? Measure the bike accurately as well, including its wheels and frame. This ensures the trays or mounts will stabilize the bike during transport.

Next, consider ease of use. Do you want a rack that allows you to load and unload the bike by yourself? Look for racks with adjustable arms that secure the wheels and frames without too much heavy lifting. Also make sure clamp bolts are easy to tighten. Check that the rack offers the right amount of ground clearance when loaded onto the roof.

Finally, safety is a top priority. The rack must attach tightly and remain stable at high speeds, through bumps, quick turns, and wind gusts. Padding protects the bike’s paint. An additional locking system deters thieves. Also verify that the rack does not obstruct lights or license plates when installed.

With a quality roof rack that meets your needs for fit, function, and security, you can transport your mountain bike safely and with peace of mind wherever the open road leads. Are you ready to hit the trail? Let’s find the perfect rack for your next adventure.

10 Best Roof Rack For Mountain Bike

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for transporting bikes securely and easily on roof racks, with adjustable front wheel cradles and locking jaws.
2
The product is ideal for transporting bikes on the roof of a car or SUV.
3
This product is ideal for safely transporting one bike on the roof of a vehicle equipped with a roof rack.
4
The product is ideal for securely transporting bicycles on top of a vehicle roof rack.
5
The product is ideal for transporting bicycles securely on the roof of vehicles using fork mounts.
6
The product is ideal for transporting and securing bikes on the roof of a vehicle.
7
Ideal for securely transporting bikes on roof racks with a quick-release system.
8
The product is ideal for transporting one bicycle on the roof of a car using suction cups and quick release mechanisms.
9
The product is ideal for transporting bicycles on the roof of a vehicle.
10
Ideal for efficient and precise mowing on large properties, commercial applications, and tight spaces.
Ideal for transporting bikes securely and easily on roof racks, with adjustable front wheel cradles and locking jaws.
The product is ideal for transporting bikes on the roof of a car or SUV.
This product is ideal for safely transporting one bike on the roof of a vehicle equipped with a roof rack.
The product is ideal for securely transporting bicycles on top of a vehicle roof rack.
The product is ideal for transporting bicycles securely on the roof of vehicles using fork mounts.
The product is ideal for transporting and securing bikes on the roof of a vehicle.
Ideal for securely transporting bikes on roof racks with a quick-release system.
The product is ideal for transporting one bicycle on the roof of a car using suction cups and quick release mechanisms.
The product is ideal for transporting bicycles on the roof of a vehicle.
Ideal for efficient and precise mowing on large properties, commercial applications, and tight spaces.

1. Rockymounts Tomahawk Upright

The bike rack is designed with a unique feature that prevents any contact with the bike frame. The user can easily ratchet the hook over the front wheel and secure the front/rear wheelstraps without touching the bike frame. The bike rack is also fat bike ready and can accommodate up to 5" tires right out of the box. It includes two wheel strap extensions for added convenience.

The swingarm of the bike rack is easily adjustable for both driver and passenger side installation. It can mount to all styles of crossbars, including round, square, factory, and aero. The bike rack is capable of holding all styles of bikes, ranging from 20 – 29" wheels, except those with front fenders.

The new Easy-Load wheel straps make loading bikes onto the rack easier than ever before. It saves time and effort while also ensuring the safety of the bike. The user can easily load and unload the bike without any hassle.

2. Sportrack Sr4883 Upshift

The bike carrier is designed to provide a secure and stable transportation solution for your bike. The carrier features a wheel tray that holds the bike firmly in place during transit, preventing any unwanted movement or damage. The adjustable arm is specifically designed to hold the down tube of the bike, providing greater stability and reducing the risk of any potential damage.

The bike carrier also comes with a lock, which provides an added layer of security by preventing any unauthorized access to your bike during transit. This ensures that your bike remains safe and secure throughout the journey.

Designed to fit on SportRack Roof Rack Systems, square, round and most factory roof racks, this bike carrier is incredibly versatile and easy to install. Whether you have a SportRack Roof Rack System or a factory roof rack, this carrier is sure to fit seamlessly onto your vehicle. However, it is recommended that you check the fit guide located in the Product Details area to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.

3. Yakima – Highspeed Fork Mount Bike Carrier For Roof Racks, 1 Bike Capacity

The Bike Carrier is an exceptional product that enables you to carry almost any road or mountain bike, as well as fat-tire bikes up to 5 inches wide. It is compatible with both quick-release (9 mm) and thru-axle bikes (12 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm), making it a versatile choice for bike enthusiasts.

The carrier's low profile tray design minimizes hatch interference, ensuring streamlined protection for your bike. Its universal mounting hardware fits most roof racks, and it comes with a tool-free installation process, making it easy for users to mount on their own. It fits Yakima round, square, factory, or aerodynamic bars, and it is T-Slot compatible with SmarT-Slot conversion kit (sold separately).

To ensure the bike is securely fastened, the Bike Carrier comes with a new integrated TorqueRight tightening knob, which can be quickly and easily adjusted to secure your bike with precision. This feature gives you the peace of mind that your bike is safely attached to the carrier.

To ensure maximum security, the Bike Carrier comes with a TailWhip cable lock that can be used to lock your bike to the mount, and the mount to the base rack. If you are looking for additional security, you can add SKS (Same Key System) locks (sold separately) to the carrier.

One important consideration when using the Bike Carrier is that a roof rack is required. The crossbar spread must be between 18" and 37", and it must fit Yakima round, square, factory, or aerodynamic bars. The T-Slot is compatible with SmarT-Slot conversion kit (sold separately).

4. Yakima, Highroad Wheel-On Upright

Introducing a top-of-the-line upright bike mount that makes transportation a breeze. This high-quality mount can carry nearly any road or mountain bike with wheelbases up to 48", 26" to 29" wheels, and tires ranging from 23mm to 4".

Designed with a low profile tray to minimize hatch interference, this mount is perfect for those who want to transport their bikes without removing any wheels or making direct contact with the bike frame. This feature makes it an ideal option for those with carbon fiber bikes or custom paint jobs that they want to protect during transportation.

To use this bike mount, a roof rack with a crossbar spread between 18" and 35" is required. The good news is that the tool-free, universal mounting hardware fits most roof racks. Plus, it's T-Slot compatible with SmarT-Slot conversion kit (sold separately) for even more convenience.

Adjusting and securing your bikes is a breeze thanks to the precise, integrated TorqueRight tightening knob. This feature allows for quick and easy adjustments to ensure your bike is securely fastened to the mount.

For those who want an extra layer of security, 2 SKS (Same Key System) locks (sold separately) can be added to the included TailWhip cable to lock both your bike and mount to your base rack (not included). This added peace of mind will ensure your bike is safe during transportation.

5. Yakima, Forklift Fork Mount

The ForkLift Bike Rack is a great solution for those in need of a versatile and adjustable bike carrier. It is designed to fit most disc brakes and bikes that use standard 100mm x 9mm quick release front hubs, although it should be noted that other hubs such as thru-axles require adapters.

One of the benefits of the ForkLift is its adjustable length, which is made possible by the sliding wheel tray. This allows for a wide range of bike lengths to be accommodated, up to a weight limit of 35lbs for a single bike.

In order to use the ForkLift, a roof rack is required with a crossbar spread of at least 16" and no more than 42". Fortunately, the ForkLift is compatible with YAKIMA round, square, factory and aerodynamic bars, and can be installed and removed easily without the need for tools.

Another advantage of the ForkLift is that it holds the bike by the front axle and the rear wheel, which means there is no frame contact. This is great news for those who are concerned about their bike's paint being scratched or damaged during transport.

To further protect your gear, it is possible to add SKS (Same Key System) locks (sold separately) to secure your bike to the rack and the rack to the vehicle. This provides an additional level of security and peace of mind when transporting your bike.

6. Thule Upride

Introducing the Universal Upright Bike Rack, a top-of-the-line product designed to provide maximum protection and convenience for bike enthusiasts. The rack is specially crafted to fit most 20-29" wheel bicycles with tires up to 3" wide, and can even accommodate up to 5" tires with the Thule UpRide Fat Bike Adapter (sold separately).

With its no-frame contact design, this bike rack ensures that your bike is kept safe and secure during transportation. The quick and easy mounting system features a ratcheting wheel strap and secure hook, making it effortless to attach the bike to the rack. And if you need to switch the carrier from one side of the vehicle to the other, it's a breeze to do so.

This bike rack is also versatile enough to accommodate various bike types, including those with carbon frames, non-traditional designs, rear suspension, and bottle cages. For added security, the bike and rack can be locked to the vehicle (locks sold separately).

This bike rack is compatible with all Thule rack systems and most factory racks, so you can be sure it will fit your vehicle perfectly. With a load capacity of 44 lbs, it can easily transport most bikes with ease.

7. Rockymounts Brassknuckles

Looking for a bike rack that can accommodate different types of bicycles and various crossbars? Look no further than the versatile and durable bike rack designed by this brand.

With a capacity of up to 45 lbs. on Rocky Mounts, Thule, or Yakima bars and 35 lbs. on factory crossbars, this bike rack can carry one bike without requiring the removal of its front wheel. The rack also ensures that there is no contact with the bike frame, securing it by its front wheel. It can support road tires up to 3.0” wide mountain bike tires and diameters from 20” to 29”.

This bike rack is compatible with bicycles’ wheelbases from 34” to 48” and has a maximum crossbar spread of 43 inches. It features form-fitting stainless steel mounting straps that fit most square, round, factory, and aero crossbars, ensuring a secure and stable fit. The ergonomic brass knuckles shaped handle and premium cast aluminum pivot head make it easy to install and remove the bike rack.

Please note that this bike rack is not suitable for use with fender-equipped bicycles. Additionally, lock cores are sold separately.

8. Rockbros Quick-Suction Bike Carrier For Your Car Roof

Introducing the Universal Roof Bike Rack with Suckers, the perfect solution for transporting your bike without the need for a regular bike roof rack. Designed to fit most cars on the market, including sedans, coupes, hatchbacks, SUVs, vans, and more, this bike rack is a versatile option for anyone who needs to transport a bike.

The installation process is quick and easy with the suction system, requiring only a few minutes to mount the bike on the roof following the instructions provided. The front fork installs quickly with the quick-release feature, while the adjustable strap secures the rear wheel in place.

The rooftop bike rack is lightweight and easy to share with friends, making it ideal for those who frequently travel with their mountain bike, road bike, trail bike, or any bike with a quick-release front wheel.

The rubber sucker protects the paint on your car from scratches, ensuring your vehicle stays in pristine condition. Please note that the surface should be clean prior to mounting the bike. The included strap keeps the pedals in place, preventing them from moving and scratching your vehicle.

Say goodbye to troublesome and overcomplicated bike roof racks and go for the Universal Roof Bike Rack with Suckers. It's an easy and practical way to transport your bike, allowing you to hit the road with ease and convenience.

9. Yakima, Frontloader Wheel-On Upright

The bike enthusiasts out there know that getting your bike to the ride location can be a challenge. Fear not, as the solution is here in the form of this bike carrier, which allows you to transport almost any type of bike with ease.

This carrier is compatible with a variety of bikes, including those equipped with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension. It can accommodate wheel sizes ranging from 20" to 27.5” with tires up to 3” width, and 29” wheels with tires up to 2.7” width. Loading your bike onto the carrier is straightforward since you can load it fully assembled, with the front wheel on (although some fenders may need to be removed). The bike carrier holds your bike upright, making it easy to load and secure.

To install the carrier, you'll need a roof rack with a crossbar spread between 16" and 48". The carrier fits YAKIMA round, square, factory, or aerodynamic crossbars. It comes fully assembled, and installation is quick and easy, with no tools required.

One of the key benefits of this carrier is that it holds your bike by the front and back wheel, without any contact with the frame. This design ensures that your bike remains scratch-free, making it a great option for carbon fiber bikes and custom paint jobs. The carrier's aerodynamic design also ensures it won't hold you back during your journey.

For added peace of mind, you can purchase 2 SKS (Same Key System) locks separately to lock your bike and the carrier to the base rack, ensuring the security of your prized possession.

10. Rhino

The Mountain Trail Bike Carrier by Rhino-Rack is the perfect solution for transporting your bike securely and conveniently on your roof. With its universal mounting system, this rooftop carrier fits all kinds of cross bars. It is designed to fit different types of bikes, including road, mountain, kids, and even fat tire bikes with the front wheel removed.

The dual locking system of this carrier ensures that both your bike and the carrier remain secure and protected. It comes with a screw-on, locking fastener for the bike's front fork and a universal mounting strap that fits most roof rack cross bars in the market. The front strap secures and locks the bike carrier to the front cross bar, while the rear features a quick dial strap for ease.

The Mountain Trail Bike Carrier is versatile, accommodating most bike types. For the rare bike that doesn't fit, Rhino-Rack offers special thru axle inserts to accommodate your bike (sold separately). It includes a rear wheel strap with a strong, quick release rubber strap that easily secures down bikes of all wheel dimensions.

This carrier comes with a 45" aluminum tray that can handle bikes weighing up to 35 lbs. (15 kg), Allen key, 2 built-in locks, and comes fully assembled. It is MasterKey compatible and works on bikes with disc brakes. Moreover, you can enjoy peace of mind with a 5-year warranty.

Rhino-Rack believes that there’s an adventurer in all of us, and it's what drives them to create world-ready outdoor gear, born and proven in Australia. They care deeply about preserving the landscapes they love and work hard to minimize their environmental impact across the board – from design to manufacturing and beyond.

Whether you’re a beginner, enthusiast, or veteran explorer – hitting the road for work or play – Rhino-Rack strives to build products that help make adventure inclusive for everybody. Every journey starts somewhere, and with the Mountain Trail Bike Carrier, you can start yours with confidence and ease.

Best Roof Rack For Mountain Bike FAQs

Are there any roof racks that are best for specific types of vehicles?

Yes, there are roof racks that are specifically designed for certain types of vehicles. The type of roof rack you need will depend on your vehicle's make and model, as well as the type of roof it has. For example, some cars have roof rails already installed, while others have a bare roof. If your car has roof rails, you'll need a roof rack that attaches to those rails. If your car has a bare roof, you'll need a roof rack that attaches to the door frames.

In addition to the type of roof, the weight capacity of the rack is also important. You'll want to make sure the rack can support the weight of the gear you plan to transport. Some roof racks are designed for lighter items like bikes or kayaks, while others can handle heavier cargo like roof boxes or lumber.

It's also important to consider the ease of installation and removal, as well as the overall durability and quality of the roof rack. Doing your research and consulting with a professional can help you find the best roof rack for your specific vehicle and needs.

Are there any roof racks that are specifically designed for off-road mountain biking?

Yes, there are several roof racks that are specifically designed for off-road mountain biking. These roof racks are designed to securely transport mountain bikes on rough terrain without causing any damage to the bikes or your vehicle. One popular option is the Thule T2 Pro XT 2-Bike Rack, which features a tool-free attachment system and a sturdy platform design that can accommodate different types of mountain bikes, including those with fat tires. Another option is the Yakima FrontLoader, which is a roof-mounted bike rack that can securely hold a bike without touching the frame. This rack is easy to install, and its design allows for quick and easy loading and unloading of the bike. Other options include the Kuat Racks NV 2.0 and the RockyMounts BrassKnuckles, both of which are designed to securely hold mountain bikes on rough terrain. Overall, there are many roof racks available that are specifically designed for off-road mountain biking, so it's important to choose one that best suits your needs and budget.

Are there any roof racks that can accommodate different types of bike frames?

Yes, there are roof racks that can accommodate different types of bike frames. Most roof racks come with adjustable clamps or straps that can be customized to fit various frame shapes and sizes. Some roof racks also have pivoting arms or adjustable wheel holders that can securely hold bikes with different frame designs, including women’s, children’s, and full suspension bikes.

One popular roof rack that can accommodate different types of bike frames is the Thule ProRide XT. This roof rack has an adjustable torque limiter dial that can be adjusted to fit bike frames with different shapes and sizes. It also has a quick-release wheel strap that can accommodate different wheel sizes and widths.

Another option is the Yakima HighRoad roof rack, which has an adjustable arm that can hold bikes with different frame designs, including carbon frames, full suspension bikes, and women’s bikes. It also has an adjustable torque knob that can be customized to fit different frame shapes and sizes.

Overall, there are many roof racks available that can accommodate different types of bike frames. It’s important to choose a roof rack that is compatible with your vehicle and bike type, and to properly secure your bike before driving.

How easy is it to install a roof rack for mountain bikes?

Installing a roof rack for mountain bikes can seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be a straightforward process. First, ensure that the roof rack you have purchased is compatible with your vehicle's make and model. Next, read through the instructions carefully and gather all the necessary tools.

The installation process usually involves fixing the rack onto the roof of your car using clamps or screws. Some roof racks may also require additional assembly of the bike mounts. It's essential to ensure that the rack is securely attached to the vehicle and that the bikes are firmly fastened to the rack before hitting the road.

Overall, the ease of installation can depend on the type of roof rack and your familiarity with DIY projects. If you're unsure about installing the roof rack yourself, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional or a knowledgeable friend. With proper installation, a roof rack for mountain bikes can provide a safe and convenient transportation solution for your outdoor adventures.

How much do the best roof racks for mountain bikes typically cost?

The cost of the best roof racks for mountain bikes can vary depending on the brand, style, and features. On average, a high-quality roof rack for mountain bikes can cost anywhere from $100 to $500. If you’re looking for a basic roof rack that can hold one bike, you can find options on the lower end of the price range. However, if you need a rack that can hold multiple bikes or has additional features like locking capabilities or compatibility with different types of bikes, you can expect to pay more. It’s important to invest in a high-quality roof rack to ensure the safety of your bike and to prevent any damage to your vehicle. Don't forget to consider the cost of installation if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. Ultimately, it's worth investing in a roof rack that will securely transport your mountain bike to your destination.

How much weight can a roof rack safely carry for mountain bikes?

The weight capacity of a roof rack for carrying mountain bikes varies depending on the make and model of the rack. However, most roof racks can safely carry between 100 and 150 pounds. It's important to check with the manufacturer of your specific roof rack to determine the exact weight capacity, as exceeding this limit can be dangerous and potentially damage your vehicle or cause an accident on the road. It's also important to properly secure your mountain bikes to the roof rack to prevent any shifting or movement during transport. This can be done using bungee cords or straps designed specifically for securing bikes to roof racks. Taking the time to properly load and secure your mountain bikes on your roof rack can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to your destination.

What are some of the most popular brands of roof racks for mountain bikes?

There are several popular brands of roof racks for mountain bikes, each offering their unique features and benefits. One of the most well-known brands is Thule, which offers a range of roof racks suitable for different vehicle types and bike sizes. Thule's products are known for being durable, easy to install, and secure.

Another popular brand is Yakima, which also offers a variety of roof racks designed to transport mountain bikes safely and securely. Yakima's products are known for their versatility, ease of use, and compatibility with a range of bike sizes and styles.

Other popular brands include RockyMounts, Saris, and Kuat. RockyMounts offers a range of bike racks that are designed to fit a variety of vehicle types and bike sizes, while Saris specializes in high-quality bike racks that are easy to install and use. Kuat is known for its high-end bike racks that are designed to be both stylish and functional.

Ultimately, the choice of brand will depend on the individual's needs and preferences, as well as the type of vehicle and bike they have. It's important to choose a roof rack that is compatible with both the vehicle and bike, and that offers the necessary features and benefits for safe and secure transport.

What are the best roof racks for carrying multiple mountain bikes?

When it comes to carrying multiple mountain bikes on your vehicle's roof, there are a variety of roof racks on the market to choose from. However, the best roof racks for carrying multiple mountain bikes typically have a few key features.

First, the rack should have a sturdy and durable construction to handle the weight and movement of multiple bikes. Look for racks made from high-quality materials such as aluminum or steel.

Second, the rack should be designed specifically for carrying bikes and have features such as adjustable wheel holders and locking mechanisms to keep your bikes secure during transport.

Some popular options for carrying multiple mountain bikes on a roof rack include the Thule T2 Pro XT, Yakima HighRoad, and Kuat Racks NV 2.0. These racks all have a reputation for being sturdy, easy to use, and able to accommodate multiple bikes.

Ultimately, the best roof rack for carrying multiple mountain bikes will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as ease of installation, compatibility with your vehicle, and your budget when making your selection.

What are the most secure roof racks for mountain bikes?

When it comes to transporting mountain bikes on your vehicle, roof racks are a popular choice. Security is a top concern for any cyclist, so finding a secure roof rack is crucial. Thule and Yakima are two of the most trusted brands in the industry, and they offer a variety of secure roof racks for mountain bikes.

Thule's UpRide and EasyFold XT models are both highly secure options. The UpRide features a torque limiter dial that clicks when the bike is securely fastened, while the EasyFold XT has a locking knob that secures the bike frame to the rack.

Yakima's HighRoad and FrontLoader are also great options. The HighRoad features a TorqueRight tightening knob that clicks when the bike is secure, and the FrontLoader has a ratcheting arm that secures the front wheel and prevents any wobbling or jostling during transport.

Ultimately, the most secure roof rack for your mountain bike will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to do your research and choose a reputable brand with a strong track record for safety and security.

What features should you look for in a roof rack for mountain bikes?

When it comes to choosing a roof rack for your mountain bike, there are several features that you should look for to ensure that it is safe, secure, and easy to use.

Firstly, you need to ensure that the roof rack is compatible with your vehicle's roof bars and that it can support the weight of your bike. It is essential to check the weight limit and the size of the bike that the rack can accommodate.

Secondly, the roof rack should have a secure attachment system that keeps the bike firmly in place during transit. Look for a rack that has adjustable straps or clamps to hold the bike in position and prevent it from moving around.

Thirdly, the roof rack should be easy to install and remove, allowing you to quickly and easily load and unload your bike. Make sure that the rack comes with clear instructions and that it can be fitted without the need for any specialized tools.

Finally, consider additional features such as locking mechanisms to secure your bike to the rack and protect it from theft, and compatibility with other types of sporting equipment, such as skis or snowboards. By considering these features when selecting a roof rack for your mountain bike, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable biking experience.

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